Winter cat care

While it may be possible for a cat to survive, it’s not humane or recommended to leave them outside in cold temperatures. Cats should not stay out all night in the cold.

Cats can get cold very easily. They have a higher body temperature than humans, so they feel colder more quickly than we do. You may have noticed your cat seeking out the best warm spots in the house – from the patch of sun on the rug to a warm lap.

Kittens, older cats, and those who are unwell will feel the chill quickest. Breeds that have descended from warm climates, like the Egyptian Mau, will feel colder, faster.

The great outdoors also comes with unexpected dangers in winter – from the increased likelihood of cats taking refuge somewhere unsafe to warm up, to the higher risk of road accidents during dark and stormy nights.

Try not to allow your cat to go outside with temperatures lower than 7 degrees Celsius – no matter how much they beg! Smaller cats, those with thinner coats, and older or younger felines may not be able to tolerate temperatures lower than 10 degrees Celsius.

Some breeds are more suited for colder weather – like Norwegian Forest Cats – so they may tolerate it better. However, all cats will struggle with temperatures below 0 degrees Celsius. This is too cold for cats, and they can be at risk of frostbite and hyperthermia if exposed for long periods.

You may need to keep a closer eye on pets that love the great outdoors in winter, as it’s not safe for them to be outside in frigid temperatures. Even if they’re asking to go out, they can be at risk of frostbite or hyperthermia.

Here are some tips to keep your felines happy and safe in cold weather:

Give them shelter outdoors

If your feline is truly an outdoor cat at heart, you may be able to provide them with a warm, waterproof, and sturdy outdoor shelter (but continue to provide indoor access). In extreme temperatures, you should encourage them back inside to the safety of the house.

Make sure your cat is microchipped

If your feline goes outside, they may be tempted to go walkies to find a warm place to take shelter. Check your microchip details are up to date, so it’s easy to trace their home if they wander off.

Ensure they have fresh water

Keep your indoor cat’s water bowls filled up in case their water sources freeze. If your cat goes outside, ensure they have fresh water inside and out. Clean all bowls regularly and keep them free from ice.

Make sure they’re warm and dry

If your cat gets wet, dry them off gently. Make sure they have plenty of warm and cosy places to curl up inside, that are free of any draughts. This is especially important for older cats or ones with arthritis and other health conditions. 

Keep them entertained indoors

Inside is the safest place for cats in winter. Engage their minds with toys and puzzle feeders and allow them to complete their natural behaviours with scratching posts and boards. Make sure they have litter trays to use while inside – even if they’re used to going outside.

Keep them away from antifreeze

Antifreeze and cats are a big no-go. It poses a real danger to your feline friend. Usually used in car radiators or de-icers, it’s very poisonous to cats. It contains ethylene glycol, which can be fatal if consumed, even if your cat only gets a little on their fur and they groom themselves.

Keep all antifreeze products out of reach and use screen wash or de-icer sprays that don’t contain ethylene glycol. If you need to drain your car radiator, wipe up any remains immediately.

Your cat may still feel the chill even if they’re inside. Luckily, there’s plenty you can do inside to keep cats warm in the winter:

• Dry off your feline when they come indoors – in case they’ve got caught in wet or snowy weather.
• If you notice the temperature dropping overnight, encourage them to sleep in a warmer room. 
• Create a cosy snug for them in a draught-free spot, with beds and blankets to keep them warm from their whiskers to their toes.
• You could even consider a pet-safe microwavable heat pad under a blanket. But avoid electric blankets – in case of chewing.